Reading close in on Simpson

Reading are close to signing Newcastle full-back Danny Simpson, according to reports.

The 25-year old is on the verge of leaving St. James' Park, following Newcastle's imminent signing of French right-back Mathieu Debuchy and the Royals look set to pounce. Brian McDermott is in the market for a right-back and will look to his personal friend Alan Pardew to strike a deal. The likes of Nathaniel Clyne, Luke Young and Kyle Naughton have also been linked with a move to Berkshire.

Simpson has rejected the Magpie's last offer of a contract, worth around £25,000-a-week. However, it is believed that Reading will offer the former Manchester United player around £30,000-a-week and guaranteed first-team football at the Madejski Stadium. The exact fee set to be offered by Reading is unknown but could be around £1.5 million, with possible add-ons.